2 Days in New York City: The Perfect NYC Itinerary for First Visit (+ Map)

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Visiting New York for two days and wondering how to plan your time? This 2-day New York City itinerary shows you exactly what to see, where to go, and how to structure your days efficiently.

New York City is huge, and two days are not enough to see all the best places in NYC in 48 hours. But with smart planning, you can visit the most iconic sights, walk through several neighborhoods, and get a real feel for the city.

This itinerary will help you see the best of New York in two days. It’s realistic, well-paced, and easy to follow – perfect for your first visit.

Good to know: We’ve visited New York multiple times and all advice this guide is based on those trips and recent updates. It also includes insider tips from NYC local and travel writer Gigi Chow, of Wet Nose Escapades. She’s lived in the Upper East Side for over three years and knows the city well.

Where to stay: For a first visit and just two days in NYC, staying in Midtown (around Times Square) makes logistics much easier. You’ll be within walking distance of several attractions and well connected by subway. The RIU Plaza Manhattan Times Square is a very popular mid-range option in this area and offers good value for the location. For more suggestions, see our guide to the best area to stay in New York.

2 Days in NYC: Itinerary Overview & Map

Here’s a quick overview of how you can spend 2 days in New York City. You don’t have to follow it exactly, but it gives you a clear structure for your days and realistic time estimates for each stop.

You’ll also find a map with all locations included, so you can easily see how everything fits together geographically.

Day 1:

• 7.30 – 8.30 AM: DUMBO.
• 8.30 – 9.30 AM: Brooklyn Bridge.
• 9.30 – 10 AM: South Street Seaport.
• 10 – 10.30 AM: Financial District.
• 10.45 AM – 3.30 PM: Statue of Liberty: by ferry or guided tour.
• 4 – 6.30 PM: Ground Zero & 9/11 Memorial Museum.
• 6.30 – 7 PM: Subway from Oculus to The High Line.
• 7 – 8.30 PM: The High Line & dinner near Chelsea Market.
• 9 PM: Empire State Building or Edge.
• Late evening (optional): Hudson Yards or Koreatown.

Day 2:

• 8 – 8.30 AM: Grand Central Terminal.
• 9 – 10 AM: Top of the Rock or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
• 10 – 11 AM: 5th Avenue. 
• 11 AM – 1.30 PM: Central Park + lunch.
• 1.30 – 5 PM: American Museum of Natural History OR The Met.
• Evening: Dinner + Times Square & Broadway Show.

TIP: If you plan to visit several of the paid attractions listed here, consider getting the New York: CityPASS®. It includes access to five major sights (all included in this itinerary) and can save you money. The pass is digital, valid for several days, and lets you visit attractions in any order.

LEARN MORE: New York City Passes Compared

How to use this map: Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Below is the detailed breakdown of how to spend 2 days in New York City.

Day 1: Brooklyn, Lower Manhattan, Statue of Liberty & Empire State Building

Here’s what your first day in New York could look like:

DUMBO

7.30 – 8.30 AM

Offering some of the best skyline views in New York, DUMBO is a great place to start your sightseeing. The name stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (and has nothing to do with the Disney character ;)).

Once an industrial area popular with artists, DUMBO is now one of Brooklyn’s most desirable neighborhoods. Its cobblestone streets, converted warehouses, and direct views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge make it especially photogenic.

The intersection of Washington and Water Streets is one of the most photographed spots in the city, where the Manhattan Bridge is perfectly framed between red-brick buildings. You’ll find the exact location marked on our map.

TIP: DUMBO is a great spot for coffee or a quick breakfast. The food hall at Time Out Market New York is a convenient option, and the rooftop views are excellent.

Good to know: It opens at 8 AM, which is why this itinerary starts here. You can grab breakfast and enjoy the views before continuing your walk.

Alternatively, arrive even earlier and head straight to the Brooklyn Bridge to cross before the morning commuter rush.

Brooklyn Bridge

8.30 – 9.30 AM

Connecting Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of NYC’s most iconic landmarks and a must for first-time visitors.

Opened in 1883, it was the first suspension bridge to use steel cables and remains one of the great engineering achievements of the 19th century. Today, it’s just as famous for its views as for its history.

From the pedestrian walkway, you’ll get fantastic skyline views of Manhattan, the East River, and even the Statue of Liberty in the distance.

Good to know: The one-way walk is about 1.3 miles and usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.

TIP: For fewer crowds and better photos, go early (ideally before 8 AM). Later in the day, it gets busy with both pedestrians and cyclists. That said, walking the bridge at any time is still worthwhile — the energy is part of the authentic New York experience.

South Street Seaport

9.30 – 10 AM

After crossing the bridge, you’ll reach South Street Seaport in downtown Manhattan.

This 4-acre historic cobblestoned area is home to some of the oldest architecture you’ll find in the city. From centuries-old mercantile buildings to renovated sailing ships, you’ll see some of the oldest buildings in the city and get a sense of historic New York.

In the past, this area was a prominent site for trade in the U.S., from domestic to transpacific trade. Today, this renovated neighborhood is bustling with trendy restaurants, hip bars, and posh boutiques.

TIP: The best part about the Seaport District is its unsurpassed views of the Brooklyn Bridge, which can be seen from Pier 17.

Good to know/ alternative planning tip: This highly-rated 1-hour Statue of Liberty Cruise departs from Pier 16. The sightseeing cruise runs frequently throughout the day and could be a good option if you are short on time and want to quickly see the Statue of Liberty without having to spend half a day to visit it as described below.

Financial District: NY Stock Exchange, Wall Street & Charging Bull

10 – 10.30 AM

No visit to Lower Manhattan would be complete without seeing the iconic landmarks of New York’s Financial District.

Start at Wall Street, one of the most famous streets in NYC. It stretches for eight blocks from South Street near the East River to Broadway in Lower Manhattan.

The southern end of Wall Street is just a few minutes’ walk from Pier 17 at South Street Seaport. You can easily walk most of the street in about 10 minutes, passing several of the area’s best-known sights along the way.

Next, stop by the iconic New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) building in the heart of the Financial District.

Founded in 1792, the NYSE is the largest stock exchange in the world by market capitalization and a symbol of Wall Street and global finance.

While you cannot visit inside, you can walk past this impressive Classical Revival landmark and see one of the most recognizable institutions in the American financial system.

Finally, stop by the famous Charging Bull, also known as the Bull of Wall Street or the Bowling Green Bull.

Located in the Financial District near Wall Street, this bronze sculpture is one of the most photographed landmarks in Lower Manhattan. Installed in 1989, it symbolizes financial strength, resilience, and prosperity. The bull weighs 7,100 pounds and measures 11 feet tall and 16 feet long.

It’s very popular for photos, and many visitors rub the bull’s testicles for good luck and financial prosperity. Because of this tradition, there’s often a long line for a photo. If you don’t want to queue, you can usually take a side-angle shot without much waiting.

Statue of Liberty

10.45 AM – 3.30 PM (or less depending on the option you choose)

Most first-time visitors want to see the Statue of Liberty, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. You have two main choices: (1) see the statue from the water, or (2) visit Liberty Island (optionally combined with Ellis Island).

A full visit to Liberty and Ellis Islands takes about 4–6 hours, including ferry time and security. If you only want to visit Liberty Island, you need at least 2 hours. If you just want to see the statue from a boat, you need an hour. With just two days in NYC, decide in advance how much time you want to dedicate to this experience.

Below are the best options for this 2-day NYC itinerary:

(1) If you only want to see the Statue of Liberty (no island visit):

• Sightseeing cruise (Pier 16). This is the fastest (+-50 minutes) and easiest way to get close-up views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline without setting foot on the island. Multiple departures daily – check availability and book here.
• Staten Island Ferry (Whitehall Terminal). A free public ferry with good views of the statue from a distance. The ride takes about 15–25 minutes each way, so plan about 1 hour total. The ferry also welcomes dogs onboard.

(2) If you want to visit Liberty Island (and possibly Ellis Island):

• Self-guided trip by ferry. Includes general admission access to Liberty and Ellis Islands. Book well ahead — tickets often sell out — and plan at least 4 hours.
• Statue of Liberty Express Tour (2 hours). A guided tour focused on the highlights, ideal if you’re short on time. You can find more information and check availability here.
• Statue of Liberty + Ellis Island Tour (4 hours). A more complete experience with guided commentary and access to both islands. You can find more information and check availability here.

Our recommendation: If you want to visit the island, go with a guided tour. The 2-hour option works well if your schedule is tight; the 4-hour version is better if you also want to visit Ellis Island. A tour saves time, simplifies logistics, and makes better use of your limited time in NYC.

Planning tip: Eat before you go or bring something with you. Food options on the islands are limited and often crowded. For more detailed advice, see our full guide to visiting the Statue of Liberty.

LEARN MORE: How To Visit the Statue of Liberty

9/11 Memorial & Museum

4 – 6.30 PM (you’ll need much less time if you don’t visit the museum)

While this is not the lightest stop on your NYC itinerary, the 9/11 Memorial is an important part of New York’s history and well worth including, even if only briefly.

Located in a large public plaza at Ground Zero, the 9/11 Memorial is free to visit and open daily. Don’t miss the two Memorial Pools, set in the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The waterfall basins are surrounded by bronze panels engraved with the names of those who lost their lives in the 2001 and 1993 World Trade Center attacks.

You can also visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. If you plan to go inside, reserve a timed-entry ticket in advance. Without pre-booking, wait times can be long — and on busy days, tickets may sell out.

If you take the Statue of Liberty tour around 11 AM, book the 4.30–5 PM time slot for the museum. This gives you a buffer in case of ferry delays and avoids rushing. If you arrive early, you can spend more time at the Memorial before entering the museum.

Good to know: Allow 1.5–2 hours for the museum. If you don’t have that much time, you can simply visit the outdoor Memorial instead.

Oculus at the World Trade Center

6.30 – 7 PM

Near Ground Zero, take a few minutes to see the Oculus at the World Trade Center. This striking transportation hub and shopping complex is impressive both outside and inside.

Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava after 9/11, the structure is meant to resemble a bird in flight. Even if you don’t plan to shop, it’s worth stepping inside to see the soaring white interior. You can also use this station to catch the subway to your next stop.

From here, head to The High Line (about 12–15 minutes by subway). If you prefer to keep the evening lighter, skip that part of the city and continue straight to Times Square or the Empire State Building (see below).

The High Line & Dinner at Chelsea Market

7 – 8.30 PM (OPTIONAL)

The High Line is a public park built on a former elevated rail line and one of the most interesting free things to do in NYC.

This 1.45-mile linear park stretches from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street, with scenic overlooks, Hudson River views, and unique perspectives of the surrounding neighborhoods. There are multiple access points along the route, including stairs and elevators, plus plenty of benches if you want to take a break.

The project was launched by local residents to save the historic New York Central Railroad structure from demolition. Since opening in 2009, it has become one of Manhattan’s most popular urban walks.

Good to know: The High Line is free and open daily, but closing times vary by season (usually between 8 and 10 PM).

TIP: The southern section is the most scenic, so start at Gansevoort Street. From here, it’s easy to combine your walk with dinner at Chelsea Market (see below). You don’t have to walk the entire length — even a shorter stroll gives you a good feel for the area.

Despite its industrial past, Chelsea Market is now one of the most popular food halls in NYC. Inside this historic building, you’ll find more than 40 food and drink vendors serving everything from Japanese tacos to German sausages and classic New York desserts.

TIP: The best way to eat at Chelsea Market is tapas-style. Pick up a small bite at one spot, then move on to another. If you have time, try 2–4 places in one visit; one for a starter, one or two for something savory, and another for dessert.

Fun facts: Chelsea Market is the birthplace of the OREO cookie. Today, the building is owned by Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company.

Good to know: While Chelsea Market is lively and fun, it’s not a budget option and can get very crowded at dinner. If you prefer something quieter or more affordable, you’ll find plenty of restaurants nearby in the Chelsea and Meatpacking District areas.

Hudson Yards

EVENING (OPTIONAL)

If you walk the entire High Line north, you’ll arrive at Hudson Yards. This newer Manhattan development has tons of restaurants, bars, public art, luxury apartments, and open plazas. It’s especially lively in the evening, with plenty of options if you’re looking for dinner or a drink.

With just 48 hours in NYC, Hudson Yards isn’t a must. So if your schedule feels tight, you can simply pass through or skip it. However, if you’d like to see several different neighborhoods in just two days, it’s an easy addition, and there are a couple of interesting landmarks here.

The Vessel, a 16-story structure made up of 154 interconnected staircases, is one of the most unique architectural landmarks in NYC. It’s sometimes possible to go inside; check availability and tickets here and allow about half an hour for a visit.

Hudson Yards is also home to Edge, a 100-story observation deck with sweeping 360° views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s currently the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. In the next section, we compare Edge with the Empire State Building to help you decide which observation deck fits best into your 2-day NYC itinerary.

Empire State Building or Edge Observation Deck

EVENING

To end your first day, visit an observation deck for classic New York skyline views. For this itinerary, you have two best options: Edge at Hudson Yards or the Empire State Building in Midtown.

Edge is located right at Hudson Yards, so it’s the most convenient choice if you’ve just finished walking the High Line. It’s a modern glass observation deck on the 100th floor with angled glass walls and a glass floor section. The views are dramatic, especially looking downtown. However, it can feel crowded, and wait times are sometimes long even with timed tickets.

The Empire State Building is about 1 mile east of Hudson Yards (around a 20-minute walk). Completed in 1931, it’s one of NYC’s most iconic landmarks and offers classic skyline views, including a direct view of the Chrysler Building and Midtown. The main ticket includes access to the open-air 86th-floor deck. You can upgrade to the 102nd floor (1,250 feet high), but most visitors find the 86th floor more than sufficient.

Which should you choose? For convenience, Edge is easier since you’re already at Hudson Yards. If you want the most iconic and timeless NYC experience, opt for the Empire State Building. Both decks are open late (usually until 11 PM or midnight, depending on the season), making them ideal evening stops.

Good to know: For both daytime and nighttime views, book a time slot about 30–45 minutes before sunset. That way, you’ll see the city in daylight and illuminated after dark. If sunset timing doesn’t work (e.g. if visiting NYC in the fall, when the days are shorter), going after dark usually means smaller crowds and equally impressive views.

PRO TIP: For either option, you need to book timed-entry tickets in advance. Sunset slots sell out even quicker.

Koreatown

LATE EVENING (OPTIONAL)

If you still have energy after your observation deck visit, head to Koreatown (K-Town). It’s located just one block south of the Empire State Building, making it an easy late-night stop on this itinerary.

NYC’s Koreatown began taking shape in the 1980s, when Korean immigrants opened restaurants and small businesses in the Garment District. Thanks to its central Midtown location, it quickly grew into one of the liveliest nightlife areas in Manhattan.

Centered on 32nd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues (also known as Korea Way), this compact neighborhood is packed with Korean BBQ restaurants, karaoke bars, dessert cafés, K-pop shops, and rooftop lounges. Whether you want late-night Korean fried chicken, a private karaoke room, or soju cocktails with friends, you’ll find plenty of options.

Often called the “Korean Times Square,” Koreatown has more than 100 small businesses, and it stays busy late into the night. Many karaoke lounges are open until 4 AM, and some Korean restaurants operate 24/7.

Good to know: At Korean bars, drinks are typically paired with shared snacks (anju), such as fried chicken or dumplings. Keep that in mind and plan a lighter dinner beforehand.

Day 2: Midtown, Central Park, Museums & Broadway

Here’s what your second day in NYC could look like:

Grand Central Terminal

8 – 8.30 AM

Start your second day at Grand Central Terminal, one of New York’s most iconic landmarks.

Located at 42nd Street and Park Avenue, this Beaux-Arts masterpiece is far more than a commuter hub. The soaring Main Concourse, celestial ceiling, and grand staircases make it one of the most impressive public spaces in the city. You’ve likely seen it in countless movies and TV shows — and in person, it’s even more striking.

Opened in 1913, Grand Central is still the largest train station in the world by number of platforms, with 44 platforms and 67 tracks across two levels.

Inside, you’ll also find a large food hall, market, shops, casual eateries, and restaurants. If you want breakfast before another full day of sightseeing, Tartinery Café is a convenient option.

Top of the Rock or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

9 – 10 AM

If you’d like to add another observation deck to your 2-day New York City itinerary, you have two excellent options within walking distance of Grand Central Terminal: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt or Top of the Rock.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt (right next to Grand Central) is a modern, immersive experience with mirrored rooms, glass ledges, and 360° views from the 93rd floor. It feels more interactive and “Instagram-friendly” than traditional observation decks. It’s extremely popular, so book timed-entry tickets well in advance.

Top of the Rock (10-minute walk from Grand Central) at Rockefeller Center offers classic open-air terraces and some of the best views of Central Park and the Empire State Building. The setting is more traditional, but the sightlines are excellent and the layout makes it easy to take photos in all directions.

Both viewing platforms offer outstanding views, and you really can’t go wrong with either. If you prefer a modern, immersive experience, choose SUMMIT. If you want unobstructed skyline views right in the heart of Manhattan, choose Top of the Rock. Keep in mind that SUMMIT takes longer (+- 2 hours). Whatever you decide, you’ll need to book timed entry tickets in advance.

TIP: If you’re visiting NYC during the holidays, don’t miss the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice-skating rink as well!

READ ALSO: Best Observation Decks in NYC

5th Avenue

10 – 11 AM

NYC’s Fifth Avenue is one of the city’s most iconic streets and a must-see on your first visit. Stretching through Midtown Manhattan, it’s known for luxury shopping, historic landmarks, and some of the most recognizable storefronts in the world.

Following this itinerary, you can walk a scenic stretch of Fifth Avenue between Grand Central and Central Park.

From Grand Central Terminal, head toward the impressive New York Public Library on 42nd Street. After visiting Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center, step inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, located directly across the street. Then continue north toward Central Park, passing flagship stores like LEGO, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and other well-known brands along the way.

As you approach Central Park, Fifth Avenue becomes part of “Museum Mile,” home to major cultural institutions such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, and El Museo del Barrio (more on these below).

Once you reach The Plaza Hotel at the southeast corner of Central Park, leave the busy avenue behind and head into the park.

Good to know: The walk from Top of the Rock to The Plaza is about 0.6 miles (15 minutes without stops). Realistically, allow more time for photos and window shopping along Fifth Avenue.

Central Park

11 AM – 1.30 PM (including lunch)

Next, explore Central Park, one of New York City’s most famous landmarks. Stretching 2.5 miles long and half a mile wide, it’s a massive green oasis in the middle of Manhattan.

Located between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side, Central Park is packed with scenic spots, historic features, and quiet corners. For first-time visitors, it can feel overwhelming, so it helps to focus on a logical route.

Since you’ll enter from the south side (near Fifth Avenue and The Plaza), here are the best places to see, listed from south to north:

• The Pond & Gapstow Bridge – A peaceful corner with classic skyline views.
• Wollman Rink – The iconic outdoor ice-skating rink (typically late October to mid-March).
• The Mall & Literary Walk – A wide promenade lined with American elm trees and statues of famous writers.
• Bethesda Terrace & Bethesda Fountain – One of the most beautiful and recognizable spots in Central Park (don’t miss it).
• Bow Bridge – A favorite photo location with great views over the lake.
• Belvedere Castle – A small 19th-century castle offering elevated views over the park.
• Tavern on the Green – A historic restaurant near the west side of the park and a good lunch option if you prefer a sit-down meal.

Good to know: All of these sights are in the southern half of Central Park. The walk from The Pond to Belvedere Castle is about 1.2 miles and takes roughly 30 minutes without stops. If you plan to visit several of these spots (or go ice skating), allow at least an extra hour. And don’t forget to foresee some time for lunch.

LEARN MORE: Top Places to See in Central Park

Next, choose one of two excellent museum options: (1) Head west to the Upper West Side and visit the American Museum of Natural History, or (2) walk east to the Upper East Side and explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met).

With only two days in New York City, it’s best to pick just one. Both museums are large and require at least a few hours to enjoy properly. Trying to do both would feel rushed. Conveniently, both museums are about a 10-minute walk from Belvedere Castle in Central Park, just in opposite directions. Below, you’ll find more details to help you decide.

American Museum of Natural History (Upper West Side)

1.30 – 4.30 PM (OPTION 1)

If you choose this option, head to the Upper West Side, a mostly residential Manhattan neighborhood known for its brownstones, local restaurants, and cultural institutions. Columbus Avenue and Amsterdam Avenue offer plenty of lunch spots, often with better value and more variety than inside Central Park.

The American Museum of Natural History, founded in 1869, is one of the most famous museums in New York City and a top attraction for both families and adults. It’s a longtime NYC institution, but it feels modern and engaging, with interactive exhibits and immersive displays.

The museum houses more than 32 million specimens across 45 exhibition halls, including the Rose Center for Earth and Space and the Hayden Planetarium. Highlights include the massive Tyrannosaurus rex, one of the world’s largest dinosaur fossil collections, and detailed habitat dioramas representing ecosystems from around the globe. Your ticket also includes access to the striking Gilder Center, with impressive contemporary architecture.

Practical info: The American Museum of Natural History is open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Plan at least 2.5 hours to explore the main exhibition halls. If you also want to see one of the special or temporary exhibitions, allow an extra hour. You can find more details and book tickets in advance here.

TIP: Admission to the American Museum of Natural History is included with this CityPASS, which also covers several major attractions in this 2-day NYC itinerary, including the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and Statue of Liberty ferries or cruises. If you’re planning to visit all of these, the pass offers very good value.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Upper East Side)

1.30 – 5 PM (OPTION 2)

If you choose this option, head to the Upper East Side, one of Manhattan’s most prestigious neighborhoods. Stretching from 59th to 96th Street between Central Park and the East River, it’s known for elegant townhouses, historic buildings, and upscale shopping along Madison Avenue.

This area also includes part of “Museum Mile” on Fifth Avenue, home to several major cultural institutions. With just two days in New York City, however, the main highlight here is The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met).

The Met is one of the most famous art museums in the world and one of the top museums in NYC. Its vast collection spans more than 5,000 years of history, from ancient Egyptian temples and Greek sculptures to European masters, American art, armor, fashion, and modern works. The scale is impressive, and can feel overwhelming. With limited time, it’s best to focus on a few key sections rather than trying to see everything.

Practical info: The Met is open daily except Wednesdays and select public holidays. You can check the latest details and book tickets here. Plan at least 2–3 hours for your visit, more if you want to explore beyond the highlights.

Good to know: The museum is really big and overwhelming for first-time visitors. Without a plan, you could spend hours wandering and still miss some of the museum’s most famous works. If you’re short on time, consider joining a guided tour. Many tours cover the top highlights with a structured route in about 2 hours, which is a great option for a first visit.

Planning tip: If you choose a guided tour, we recommend this highly rated tour. However, it usually starts around 11 AM, so you’ll need to adjust your schedule slightly. In that case, visit in the morning, and leave more time for Fifth Avenue, Central Park, and other attractions later in the afternoon. This would actually be a rather relaxing way to spend your day since you do all the ‘musts’ that require advance planning first thing in the morning.

Broadway Show & Dinner

EVENING

Seeing a Broadway show is one of the best ways to experience New York in the evening. Even with just 2 days in NYC, it’s absolutely worth fitting one into your itinerary. With dozens of theaters and productions running at the same time, there’s something for every age and interest.

Popular shows often sell out well in advance, especially on weekends and during peak travel periods, so book your tickets ahead of time. You can check availability for your travel dates here.

What to see? If you’re traveling with kids or teens, The Lion King (Minskoff Theatre) and Aladdin (New Amsterdam Theatre) are best family-friendly choices. For adults looking for something more high-energy, MJ – The Musical (Neil Simon Theatre) and Moulin Rouge (Al Hirschfeld Theatre) are excellent options.

On a recent visit to New York with teenagers, we saw &Juliet (Stephen Sondheim Theatre) and Harry Potter and The Cursed Child (Lyric Theatre). Both are quite different from traditional Broadway musicals and worked very well with older kids and teens.

Good to know: Most Broadway theaters are located around Times Square, so it’s easy to plan dinner before or after the show (most performances run about 2.5 hours, including intermission). Depending on your showtime, you may also want to explore Times Square first (see below).

LEARN MORE: Best Musicals on Broadway This Year

Times Square

LATE EVENING.

End your visit to New York at Times Square. Even if it feels touristy, it’s something most first-time visitors want to see at least once.

One of the busiest pedestrian areas in the world, Times Square is known for its massive digital billboards, bright lights, and nonstop energy. It’s also home to the famous New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and sits right in the heart of the Broadway Theater District.

Originally called Longacre Square, the area was renamed in 1904 after The New York Times moved into the newly built One Times Square tower. Today, it attracts around 50 million visitors each year. Whether you simply walk through, grab a late-night bite, or head to a rooftop bar nearby, there’s always something happening.

TIP: Visit after dark for the full effect. The illuminated billboards are what make Times Square unique, and it’s far more impressive at night than during the day.

Good to know: Times Square is now largely traffic-free, which makes it easier to explore than in the past. However, it gets very crowded, especially on weekends. Keep your belongings secure and stay aware of your surroundings.

Where to Stay

For this itinerary, the most convenient area to stay is around Times Square. You’ll end Day 1 here and start and finish Day 2 nearby, so staying in this area saves you time and unnecessary subway rides.

Manhattan isn’t cheap, but prices are fairly similar across central neighborhoods. Choosing a hotel near Times Square puts you within walking distance of many major sights and makes this 2-day plan much easier to follow.

Here are some of the best-rated hotels in this area for different budgets:

• $$$$$ RIU Plaza Manhattan Times Square – a very popular 4-star hotel that sometimes offers excellent rates, especially when booked well in advance.
• $$$$ M Social Hotel Times Square – a stylish hotel with a rooftop bar overlooking Times Square.
• $$$ CIVILIAN Hotel – a modern design hotel offering very good value for this location.
• $$ Pod Times Square – one of the most popular budget-friendly options with consistently strong reviews.

PRO TIP: Book your NYC hotel as soon as you know your travel dates. New York is busy year-round, and prices usually increase closer to arrival.

LEARN MORE: Where to Stay in NYC

Practical Tips for 2 Days in NYC

• Stay in Manhattan, ideally near Times Square or Midtown. With only 2 days in New York City, location really matters. Staying central will save you time on transportation and make this itinerary much easier to follow.

• Book major attractions in advance. Observation decks, the Statue of Liberty, Broadway shows, and popular attractions often sell out or have long lines. Even if you use any of the recommended city passes, you’ll still need to reserve timed-entry slots for some top sights.

• Pack light. Many NYC attractions have airport-style security and strict rules about bags, food, and sharp items. For Liberty Island, lockers require small change. A small crossbody bag (something like this) works best for sightseeing.

• Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking several miles each day. NYC is best explored on foot, and even locals prioritize comfort over fashion.

• Use public transportation wisely. Walk shorter distances, but take the subway for longer stretches to save energy. For short late-night rides, taxis or Uber can be convenient. And don’t hesitate to ask for directions – asking quickly is better than losing time trying to figure things out.

• Plan meals strategically. Consider a quick lunch on the go to maximize sightseeing time. For dinner, especially on weekends, you may want to make reservations in advance.

• Carry a portable charger. You’ll rely on your phone for maps, tickets, photos, and transit. A fully charged power bank can save your day.

For more detailed advice on saving time, avoiding common mistakes, and planning your trip efficiently, see our complete New York travel tips guide below.

LEARN MORE: Tips & Tricks for Visiting New York

This wraps up our 2-day New York City itinerary. If you want to see the most famous NYC landmarks in a short time, this plan will help you make the most of your 48 hours.

Of course, there are countless ways to spend two days in New York. If the schedule feels too packed, skip a few attractions that don’t interest you as much and slow the pace. That’s exactly why we marked some stops as optional.

And if there’s a specific neighborhood or landmark you don’t want to miss, use the map to adjust the route and fit it in. With smart planning, you can see a lot in two days, so use this as a starting guide to help you plan your own perfect trip. Have a great time in NYC!

Plan More Time in NYC:

• New York Itinerary for 1 Day
• New York 7 Days Itinerary
• Best Broadway Shows in NYC
• For more New York City travel tips, itineraries, and inspiration, explore our New York Travel Guides.

More USA City Itineraries:

• Philadelphia 1-Day Itinerary
• Chicago 2-Day Itinerary
• San Diego Itinerary
• Los Angeles 3-Day Itinerary
• San Francisco 2-Day Itinerary
• Las Vegas 1-Day Itinerary
• Phoenix – Scottsdale Itinerary
• For more destinations and detailed itineraries, explore our USA travel blog.

TIP: Did you find this guide helpful? Bookmark this post for later, share it with your friends, and save it to Pinterest to inspire your next trip.

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